Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands (Safety first! Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.)
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Wrenches (metric)
* Brake caliper pliers (C-clamp style)
* Hammer (rubber mallet preferred)
* Pry bar (plastic or wood is best to avoid scratching)
* Wire brush
* Brake cleaner
* New rear brake shoes, hardware (springs, clips, etc.), and possibly wheel cylinders (inspect them carefully)
* Grease
* Safety glasses
* Gloves
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, chock the front wheels, and use jack stands to securely lift the rear of the truck. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
3. Inspect the Brake System: Visually inspect the brake components. Look for:
* Brake Drum: Check for excessive rust, scoring, or cracks. If severely damaged, it needs replacement.
* Wheel Cylinders: Look for leaks, corrosion, or damage. If they're leaking or damaged, they need replacing.
* Brake Shoes: Check the thickness of the brake shoes. Replace them if they're worn below the minimum thickness specified in your repair manual.
* Hardware: Inspect all springs, clips, and other hardware for wear or damage. Replace anything that's broken or worn.
4. Remove the Brake Drum: Sometimes the drum can be removed easily by hand. If it's stuck, use a rubber mallet to gently tap it from the outside, working your way around the circumference. Avoid damaging the drum. If it's extremely stubborn, you might need a drum puller.
5. Remove the Old Brake Shoes: Once the drum is off, you'll see the brake shoes. Carefully note how all the springs and other hardware are positioned. Take photos if it helps. Remove the old shoes and hardware.
6. Clean the Brake Components: Thoroughly clean the brake drum, shoes, and wheel cylinders with brake cleaner. Use a wire brush to remove any rust or debris.
7. Install the New Brake Shoes and Hardware: Install the new brake shoes and hardware, ensuring everything is positioned correctly as it was before. Refer to your repair manual or diagrams for proper placement. Lubricate the contact points of the springs and hardware with grease as needed.
8. Install the Brake Drum: Carefully install the brake drum. It should slide on relatively easily.
9. Install the Wheel: Mount the wheel and tighten the lug nuts snugly.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the vehicle to the ground and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
11. Bleed the Brakes (Important): Air might have entered the brake lines during the process. You MUST bleed the brakes to ensure proper braking performance. This usually involves opening bleeder valves on the calipers or wheel cylinders while someone pumps the brake pedal. Refer to your repair manual for proper bleeding procedure.
Important Notes:
* Safety: Brake work involves safety-critical components. If you are not comfortable performing this task, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
* Repair Manual: Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and safety precautions specific to your 2002 Chevy S-10.
* Wheel Cylinders: If the wheel cylinders are leaking or damaged, they *must* be replaced. Ignoring this can lead to brake failure.
* Brake Drum Condition: A severely damaged or scored brake drum should be replaced.
* Brake Fluid: Keep an eye on your brake fluid level after bleeding the brakes.
This is a simplified guide. Always prioritize safety and consult a repair manual for detailed, vehicle-specific instructions. Incorrectly installed brakes can be extremely dangerous.
